The UCSF Wayne and Gladys Valley Center for Vision & Administrative Building initiates UCSF’s Mission Bay East Campus. Delivered design-build/IPD, this 347,500 square foot building is comprised of a 12-story academic office tower balanced by a 5-story Center for Vision Neuroscience containing research, teaching and ophthalmology clinical space.

The dual functions are articulated through an interplay of materials and fenestration strategies. The interior and exterior design work together to celebrate the power of vision. Universally accessible, the interior environment is wrapped in a warm palette and imbued with subtle wayfinding strategies to support low-vision patients including light, saturated color markers, and materiality changes. Office environments are egalitarian and open. Outdoor terraces maximize Bay views and façades are enlivened by shifting shadow patterns. Multiple building and site amenities support the user experience together creating a welcome addition to the UCSF Mission Bay Campus and setting a new design stand.

Photography: Emily Hagopian